European Nations Demand Release of Political Prisoners in Russia
Several European nations have called on Russia to release individuals they describe as political prisoners, urging Moscow to uphold human rights and international legal standards.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, the countries expressed concern over the continued detention of opposition figures, activists and journalists in Russia.
The governments said the arrests and prosecutions of critics raise serious questions about freedom of expression and political pluralism.
“We call on the Russian authorities to immediately release all individuals detained for exercising their fundamental rights,” the statement read.
The European leaders also urged Russia to ensure fair trial standards and respect for due process in accordance with international conventions.
The demand comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and Western countries over governance, civil liberties and geopolitical issues.
Moscow has repeatedly denied accusations of politically motivated detentions, insisting that all arrests are conducted in line with Russian law.
Human rights organisations have, however, maintained that several detainees are being held on charges widely viewed as politically driven.
The latest call adds to mounting international pressure on the Kremlin over its domestic policies and treatment of opposition voices.